SINN Féin has defended a decision not to invite members of the print media, including The Irish News, to a press conference announcing the resignation of Deputy First Minister Martin McGuinness.
Mr McGuinness revealed the news to several broadcast journalists at around 3pm on Monday, with each then permitted to ask one question.
The unconventional manner of the announcement was said to have been decided by senior Sinn Féin officials after Mr McGuinness decided to make the announcement personally despite ongoing health issues.
The Irish News had made enquiries to the party amid rumours of a press facility, but been told that there were no plans for Mr McGuinness to address the media as yet.
A detailed letter announcing the resignation, signalling the collapse of the Executive and likely new elections, was presented to broadcasters around the same time.
Sinn Féin said the decision on the announcement was made because of Mr McGuinness' health issues.
The party also re-iterated that his resignation was due solely to the recent political crisis.
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